SAN ANTONIO – The University of the Incarnate Word football team looks to make history this Saturday, November 23 at East Texas A&M, formerly known as Texas A&M – Commerce. With a win against the Lions, the Cardinals will be the first team in program history to finish undefeated in conference play.

UIW

• As the regular season comes to a close this Saturday, the No. 6 Cardinals are awaiting the 2024 FCS Selection Show on Sunday, November 24 airing on ESPNU.
• Fourteen FCS programs have been ranked in every Top 25 poll this season, including UIW as the sole Southland Conference representative. The Cardinals have been active in the rankings for 51-straight weeks, the fifth longest streak behind North Dakota State, South Dakota State, Montana and Montana State.
• The Cardinals are tied for first in FCS with 15 fumbles recovered, third in FCS for red zone defense, and fourth for defensive touchdowns.

SCOUTING EAST TEXAS A&M

• The Lions are 3-8 overall and are currently on a two-game win streak, defeating Houston Christian (41-40) and Stephen F. Austin (19-14). East Texas A&M has the third-best offense and defense in the league.
• Quarterback Ron Peace was named the SLC Offensive Player of the Week following the win over the Huskies. He threw for 400 yards and four touchdowns to clinch the victory in the final minute of the game.
• Leading tackler, Brandon Tucker has amassed 130 total tackles so far on the season with a season-high 19 against SFA to earn himself SLC Defensive Player of the Week.
• Christian Jourdain is the Lions' leading receiver with six touchdowns on 645 yards.

THE LAST TIME THEY MET

• The Cardinals are 5-0 against the Lions all-time with the most recent win, 28-11, coming last season on October 14, 2023.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

• Zach Calzada leads the FCS in passing touchdowns with 30 on the season and comes in at No. 6 for passing yards (3,018) and passing yards per game (274.36).
• UIW is home to two top five receivers in the FCS. Jalen Walthall is No. 2 with his 13 receiving touchdowns, while Roy Alexanders adds 11 to come in at No. 4.
• The Cardinal defense litters the Southland Conference leader board. Mason Chambers leads the team with 73 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, six pass break ups, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble. Mister Williams leads the team with 12.5 tackles for loss for 40 yards and his eight QBHs, and five forced fumbles. Devin Grant has the most sacks on the team with 7.5, while Dune Smith adds 9.5 TFL and five sacks.

FOLLOW ALONG    
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on, and like UIW Athletics on Facebook.     
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